Website of the UK government

Help from your local council

Aids and equipment are often provided through the social services department of your local council. The National Health Service (NHS) Hospital Eye Service can also prescribe a range of aids for people with partial sight.

All blind and visually impaired people are entitled to a health and social care assessment from their local council. This means someone from social services will assess your needs to make sure you get the equipment and services that are right for you.

Your local social services department may put you in touch with a rehabilitation worker, who can help you learn new ways to manage everyday tasks.

Rehabilitation workers can also teach you how to get around safely and how to communicate more easily - for example, by teaching you to type or use writing aids and communication software.

• Health and social care assessments

Everyday equipment to make life easier

Tools and gadgets

A wide range of tools and gadgets are available that make it easier for blind and visually impaired people to manage household tasks. A few examples are:

You can buy products designed specifically for blind and visually impaired people and get advice on specialist equipment from some charities and other organisations, including the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB).

• Blind or visually impaired people contacts

Accessible technology and telephones

Computer products and telephone systems that are particularly useful for blind and visually impaired people include:

• Accessible technology products

Equipment and services for leisure at home

Sight loss doesn't have to mean that you can't enjoy television, books and other printed media like newspapers and magazines. Some products that may be helpful include:

If you're registered blind with your local council, you're entitled to a 50 per cent discount on your television licence.

• Leisure at home